BULOVA PRODUCTION YEARS

Bulova production years

Dating vintage Bulova watches is often facilitated by the brand's well-documented date code system. The date code, typically a letter or letter-number combination found on or inside the case back, can be decoded using tables maintained by collector organizations. This system covers a substantial portion of Bulova's production history and is generally considered one of the more reliable vintage watch dating methods.

In addition to the date code, the overall design characteristics of a Bulova watch can help confirm or approximate the production date. Bulova published annual catalogs, and many of these have been digitized and made available through collector resources. Matching a watch to its catalog listing can provide confirmation of the date code and additional information about the model's specifications and original pricing.

For modern Bulova watches without the vintage date code system, the model reference number is typically the best tool for identification and dating. Bulova's product history under Citizen ownership is generally well-documented through official catalogs and retailer records. For specific dating questions, Bulova's customer service may be able to assist, and the active Bulova collector community maintains extensive resources.

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How to Date Your Bulova Watch

To determine the approximate production year, start by locating the serial number on the case back or between the lugs. Compare this number against known production ranges for Bulova. The model reference number can also help narrow down the production window, since specific references were only produced during certain periods.

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Things to Keep in Mind

Production dates are approximate. A serial number tells you when the case was manufactured, which may not match the movement production date or the actual sale date. Watches with replaced components (such as a new bracelet or service dial) may show mixed dates. Vintage models with limited documentation are especially difficult to date precisely.

More Bulova Guides

Serial Number Guide Case Back Markings Bracelet & Clasp Codes Identify Your Watch

Related Markings

Crystal Press Back Symbol

A small symbol on the case back indicating it should be opened with a crystal press tool rather than unscrewed. This marking guides watchmakers on the correct method for case back removal.

Japan Movement Stamp

A case back marking indicating the watch uses a movement manufactured in Japan. This is commonly seen as "JAPAN MOVT" or "JAPAN MOVEMENT" and denotes the origin of the caliber inside.

Stainless Steel Back Stamp

A marking reading "STAINLESS STEEL BACK" or "ST. STEEL BACK" indicating the case back material. This is commonly found on watches where only the back is stainless steel while the case body may be a different material.

WR 50M / 5 Bar Marking

A water resistance rating of 50 meters (5 bar/ATM), indicating the watch can handle everyday moisture like rain and hand washing. This rating is not suitable for swimming or submersion.

Swiss Made Label

A legally protected designation indicating the watch meets Swiss origin requirements for movement, assembly, and quality inspection. "Swiss Made" is one of the most recognized quality marks in watchmaking.

Japan Movt Marking

A case back marking indicating the watch uses a Japanese-manufactured movement. This is one of the most common markings found on affordable watches worldwide.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find the date code on my vintage Bulova watch?

The date code on vintage Bulova watches is typically found on the case back, either on the outside near other markings or on the inside surface (requiring the case back to be removed). It is commonly a single letter or a letter-number combination. Collector resources, particularly myBulova.com, provide comprehensive guides for locating and decoding these date marks.

How do I decode a Bulova date code?

Bulova date codes can be decoded using tables that map specific letters and letter-number combinations to production years. These tables cover roughly the 1920s through the 1970s and are maintained by collector organizations. For example, a specific letter might correspond to a particular year. The exact mapping is well-documented in online Bulova collector resources.